Final answer:
Congress possesses the authority to change the organization and jurisdiction of district and circuit courts, as seen through various acts such as the Judiciary Act of 1789 and subsequent legislation. Additionally, the Senate plays a role in shaping the judiciary through confirmation of presidential nominees.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, Congress has the authority to change the organization of the district and circuit courts. The Judiciary Act of 1789 laid the groundwork for today's federal court system, creating the three-tiered structure consisting of district courts, circuit courts, and the Supreme Court. Over time, Congress has exercised its power conferred by Section 8 Clause 9 of the Constitution to establish courts, modify their structure, and expand or refine their jurisdiction. For instance, the U.S. district courts were initially established with limited jurisdiction, which was gradually expanded to include a broader range of federal questions. The intermediate appellate courts, known as the circuit courts or U.S. Courts of Appeals, have a precise role of reviewing district court decisions, with the potential for their decisions to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Congress also retains the power to adjust the number of seats in the Supreme Court, as historical acts demonstrate. Moreover, Congress can alter federal court procedures and change appellate jurisdiction, underscoring its significant role in shaping the judiciary. The Senate further checks the judiciary by confirming or rejecting presidential court nominees.
The established precedent and the reliance on it have been critical for the federal courts to maintain legitimacy and consistency in their operation, especially given that federal judges and justices are not elected officials. Congress, thus, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the judicial system remains adaptive and functional through its legislative powers.